What you should know about ignition interlock devices

On Behalf of | Jun 6, 2018 | Drunk Driving Charges

Ignition interlock devices (IIDs) save lives. According to a recent study conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), states with laws that require people who are guilty of driving under the influence to have IIDs installed in their vehicles reduce fatal DUI-related crashes by 16 percent.

Under “Noah’s Law,” which went into effect here in Maryland in 2016, even first-time DUI offenders are required to have IIDs installed. More than half of all states as well as the District of Columbia mandate IIDs for at least some people after their first DUI offense.

In all, 45 states mandate IIDs for at least some DUI offenses. However, they’re often not required unless someone has had multiple DUIs.

Interestingly, according to the IIHS study, the impact of IIDs mandated solely for repeat offenders on the number of DUI-related fatalities is very small (just 3 percent). It’s slightly higher (8 percent) when also mandated for drivers who had a high blood alcohol content (BAC).

Based on 2016 data, the lead author of the IIHS study asserts that if every state had “all-offender” IID requirements, over 500 lives could be saved every year. Even all-offender laws vary by state. Some states require IIDs in order for drivers to have their license suspension lifted. Others allow people to drive during their suspension as long as they have an IID installed.

Obviously, most people don’t want to have to deal with an IID. They can be embarrassing. They also cost money. Drivers who are required to have IIDs have to pay for installation as well as for the monthly costs of monitoring and calibration. Installation can run up to $150 and monthly fees as much as $80.

If you’ve been arrested for DUI, even if it’s your first time, it’s essential to understand the ramifications of pleading guilty or being convicted. An experienced Maryland DUI attorney can explain your legal options and help you make an informed decision on the best way to proceed given your specific situation.

Source: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, “State laws mandating interlocks for all DUI offenders save lives,” accessed June 06, 2018

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